Where you can get a pregnancy test
Pregnancy test kits are available from pharmacies and some supermarkets. You can take the test privately, and they can provide a quick result.
The following places provide free pregnancy tests:
Your doctor might also be able to provide you with a free pregnancy test.
How soon can I take a pregnancy test?
The best time to take a pregnancy test is right after your period is past due. If you miss your period or suspect pregnancy, it’s a good idea to get a pregnancy test as soon as possible.
The sooner you become aware of your pregnancy, the sooner you can consider your options and seek the care you require to remain healthy.
Many pregnancy tests claim to be effective a few days prior to a missed period, but the results are typically less reliable then. To determine when to perform a pregnancy test and how accurate it will be, read the label on your pregnancy test.
Sometimes, as soon as 10 days after unprotected sex, a pregnancy test can detect pregnancy hormones in your urine. But you might receive a false positive or false negative test result because these results aren’t very reliable.
Take a pregnancy test three weeks after sex for the most accurate results if your periods are erratic or you don’t have any at all for any reason.
Will a pregnancy test work if I’m on the pill?
Hormones are present in some contraceptive methods, such as the contraceptive pill, but they will not interfere with the accuracy of a pregnancy test.
If you think you might be pregnant, it’s important to get a pregnancy test because no method of contraception is 100% effective.
If you correctly follow the instructions, home pregnancy tests are reliable.
A positive test result is almost certainly correct. However, a negative test result is less reliable.
The result may not be reliable if you:
Some medicines can also affect the results.
Wait a few days and retest if you receive a negative result but are still convinced you are pregnant. If a second test yields a negative result but your period has not yet started, consult your doctor.
Contact your GP or a midwife to begin antenatal care if you are pregnant and intend to carry the pregnancy to term. Calculate when your baby is due using the pregnancy due date tool.